Wildcats Pathways Alumni Stories: Jesse Beattie

Through a dual diploma in Sport and Business, students combine theory with hands-on, work-integrated learning alongside the Perth Wildcats organisation.

The program connects participants with industry professionals, world-class facilities and real projects, helping them develop practical skills, confidence and networks that prepare them for a future in sport or business.

Each student is supported through SEDA’s MyPLAN, providing clear pathways into higher education or the workforce.

For Jesse Beattie, joining the Perth Wildcats Sport & Business Program opened the door to opportunities he never expected to find so early in his career.

"At first, I saw it as a pathway to build a few connections and then possibly go off into another career," he says. "But by the end, I saw a real opportunity to build a career with the Wildcats that I didn’t think I’d be able to get after my first season."

Jesse’s first season was focused on learning, observation and understanding what it takes to contribute inside a professional environment.

"The first season was about learning and understanding the direction you want to go in, showing yourself to the club and being a sponge," Jesse says. "You just try to absorb as much as possible and pick a direction."

Throughout the program, Jesse rotated through different departments including media, merchandise, operations and events. Seeing how each area worked gave him an appreciation for how many moving parts go into making the club function.

"I’d say the most valuable experience was just getting the reps in and being around people every day, seeing how the organisation runs and what’s expected of you. Everyone’s so easy to talk to and that support showed me what I needed to do to be ready for an opportunity."

By the end of his first year, Jesse’s work ethic and reliability stood out. The relationships he built through the program turned into a chance to stay on in a staff role with the club.

"From the very first day of the program, I just kept a focus on the relationship and the career side of it," he says. "It was about staying involved, showing I wanted to be part of it and keeping in touch with people at the club."

Now in his second season with the Wildcats, Jesse continues to develop within the organisation, gaining more responsibility while refining his understanding of how elite sport operates day to day.

No two days look the same, but Jesse’s focus stays on supporting the team and keeping everything running smoothly.

"I help set up training, prepare breakfast, make sure the players have their equipment and that the coaches, strength and conditioning and physio staff have everything they need," he says. "My role is to make sure everyone’s happy and game-ready so they can focus on performing."

That teamwork and attention to detail have shaped how he sees the sport industry. "Without the staff and people in operations, none of it would happen," he says. "Teamwork is so valuable, and everyone doing their part makes the whole thing work."

Through the program and his current role, Jesse has learned the importance of communication, consistency and professionalism.

"The program and the job taught me what’s required to work in a professional environment," he says. "I wouldn’t be where I am without the program. It gave me the access, the learning and the confidence to take that next step."

Jesse encourages anyone considering the Perth Wildcats Sport & Business Program to take the opportunity.

"This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience," he says. "If you want to understand how a professional environment operates, even if you’re not sure of your direction yet, this is the best way to find it. Just keep saying yes, keep working hard and you’ll get where you want to go."

The Perth Wildcats Sport & Business Program is now accepting applications for next year’s intake. 

Find out how you can turn your passion for sport into a career here. Applications for the 2026 program are open until February.

Perth Wildcats work in collaboration with SEDA Group RTO: 22503 on marketing and promotional services relating to the recruitment of prospective students for this program. SEDA Group is responsible for training, assessment and issuance of AQF certification documentation. RTO does not guarantee employment.